Are you looking for some unique and fun things to do in Charlotte, North Carolina? If you want to go beyond the usual attractions and discover some hidden gems, this blog post is for you. Here are 10 under-the-radar experiences that will make your trip to Charlotte unforgettable.
Feed the fish at the SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium
If you love marine life, you’ll enjoy feeding the fish at the SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium. You can get up close and personal with stingrays, sharks, seahorses and more as you hand-feed them their favourite snacks. You’ll also learn about their habitats, behaviours and conservation efforts from the friendly staff.
Join a haunted walking tour… if you dare
Do you believe in ghosts? Whether you do or not, you’ll have a spooky time on a haunted walking tour of Charlotte’s historic sites. You’ll hear stories of murder, mystery and mayhem as you explore the dark side of the city’s past. You’ll also get to use ghost-hunting equipment to detect any paranormal activity along the way.
Learn about glass blowing at Hot Glass Alley
If you’re feeling creative, you can learn about glass blowing at Hot Glass Alley, Charlotte’s only glass art studio. You can watch the master glassblower create stunning pieces of art, or sign up for a class and make your own. You can choose from various projects, such as ornaments, vases, bowls and more.
Explore the vibrant area of Fourth Ward
If you want to experience the charm and history of Charlotte, you can explore the vibrant area of Fourth Ward. This neighbourhood is home to beautiful Victorian homes, cozy cafes, eclectic shops and lush gardens. You can take a self-guided walking tour or join a guided one to learn more about the architecture and culture of this area.
Take a segway tour of the city
If you want to see the city from a different perspective, you can take a segway tour of Charlotte. You’ll glide through the streets and parks on a two-wheeled electric vehicle, while listening to your guide’s commentary on the landmarks and attractions. You can choose from various routes, such as uptown, historic or art-themed.
Discover Charlotte’s big cats at Tiger World
If you’re a fan of big cats, you’ll love visiting Tiger World, a non-profit animal sanctuary that rescues and cares for exotic animals. You can see tigers, lions, leopards, cougars and more as they roam in their natural habitats. You can also feed some of them, watch them play and interact with them.
Wet your whistle at The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery & Biergarten
If you’re thirsty for some craft beer, you can wet your whistle at The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery & Biergarten. This brewery is known for its German-style beers that are brewed according to the Reinheitsgebot (German purity law). You can sample their beers on tap, enjoy some authentic German food and relax in their spacious outdoor area.
Admire the beautiful plants at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for some nature and tranquility, you can admire the beautiful plants at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. This garden features 110 acres of stunning landscapes, including orchids, roses, tropical plants and more. You can also enjoy seasonal events, such as holiday lights, butterfly exhibits and concerts.
Rock out at the PNC Music Pavilion
If you’re in the mood for some live music, you can rock out at the PNC Music Pavilion. This outdoor amphitheatre hosts some of the biggest names in music, from rock to country to pop. You can enjoy the sound and atmosphere of a concert under the stars.
Stare into the eyes of Metalmorphosis
If you’re looking for something quirky and cool, you can stare into the eyes of Metalmorphosis. This is a giant metal sculpture of a human head that rotates and spits water. It was created by Czech artist David Černý and is located in a corporate park. You can watch it in action on its website or visit it in person.
